South Africa has imposed steep tariffs on structural steel from China and Thailand after finding dumped imports were harming local producers. The duties aim to protect domestic manufacturers and stabilise the steel industry.
South Africa has introduced steep import duties on structural steel from China and Thailand after finding evidence of dumping. Chinese steel will face a 74.98% tariff, while Thai steel will be hit with a 20.32% duty.
The International Trade Administration Commission of South Africa (ITAC) said the steel was being sold below normal market prices, harming local producers. The country’s trade minister approved the tariffs to protect domestic manufacturers.
The duties apply mainly to structural steel used in construction. They follow provisional tariffs set in 2024, which were 52.81% for China and 9.12% for Thailand.
South Africa’s steel industry has struggled with weak domestic demand and a surge of cheaper imports. Some local mills have been temporarily closed due to these challenges.
Imports account for around 36% of the country’s steel consumption, with China supplying about 73% of that.
The new tariffs are expected to help domestic producers regain market share, stabilise prices, and maintain production and employment.
